Senior Category Manager, Europe

The Sysco European Merchandising Hub is currently recruiting for a Senior Category Manager (with Buying Responsibilities) to join the team on a Full Time, Permanent basis. As the Senior Category Manager Senior Category Manager (with Buying Responsibilities), you will be responsible for the development, implementation and successful execution of category strategies and category management processes across designated product groups within the EU Merchandising Hub. The role combines approximately 60-70% Category Management responsibilities and 30-40% Buying responsibilities . You will act as the 100% Category Manager for Frozen Vegetables, Frozen Fruits and Frozen Potato categories , leading category strategy, assortment optimisation, innovation, supplier engagement, and performance management across Europe. In parallel, you will serve as a Buyer and Category Manager for strategic new business development projects , including emerging and convenience product ranges, where you will take full ownership of both sourcing and category development activities from concept to launch. This role will lead the European category management process for designated categories while also managing supplier sourcing and procurement activities for selected growth projects. All activities will align with Sysco ’s legal, sustainability, brand, and FSQA standards to drive profitable category growth and support strategic business expansion. This position offers a remote working arrangement from anywhere within the UK or Europe. Key Responsibilities - Own the creation of optimised product ranges for Europe as a whole for Frozen Vegetables, Frozen Fruits and Frozen Potato categories, balancing European scale opportunities with local market needs. - Lead the development and execution of category strategies, assortment architecture, supplier portfolio and innovation roadmaps for these categories. - Manage the full end-to-end product lifecycle, identifying opportunities for product launches, range optimisation and discontinuations. - Partner closely with local merchandising, commercial and procurement teams to ensure category strategies deliver sustainable growth and customer relevance. - Make fact-based decisions using Sysco internal data, supplier insights, market intelligence, competitor analysis and category performance data. - Drive category growth, profitability and Sysco Brand penetration across assigned categories. - Develop and maintain strategic supplier relationships, supporting innovation, performance improvement and long-term partnership objectives. - Identify and proactively mitigate supply chain and market risks within the category portfolio. Buying Responsibilities (30-40%) - Lead sourcing activities for new strategic projects and emerging categories, including convenience products and other growth platforms. - Act as both Buyer and Category Manager for assigned development projects, managing supplier selection, negotiations, commercial terms and range development. - Identify, evaluate and onboard new suppliers that support Sysco ’s growth ambitions, quality standards and sustainability objectives. - Deliver procurement initiatives that generate value through cost optimisation, innovation, service improvement and supply security. - Collaborate with FSQA, Supply Chain, Sustainability and Commercial teams to ensure successful product implementation and supplier compliance. - Support business case development and strategic decision-making related to new product and category opportunities. You The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic and evolving international environment and brings a strong blend of Category Management and Purchasing expertise . You will have significant experience in category management, sourcing and supplier management, ideally within foodservice, retail, FMCG or the food manufacturing industry. You are comfortable balancing long-term category strategy with hands-on procurement and negotiation activ